Photo: Mattinbgn ( talk · contribs ) / CC BY 3.0
Welcome to Dunedoo, a classic country town in the upper Hunter Valley that wears its rural heart on its sleeve. Known for its iconic 'Dunny' — a giant concrete toilet that has become an unlikely roadside attraction — this friendly community offers a genuine slice of Australian outback life. Surrounded by rolling farmland and the Warrumbungle ranges, Dunedoo is a perfect stop for travellers seeking wide-open skies, local hospitality, and a slower pace.
Highlights & What to See
- The Big Dunny — Australia's quirkiest big thing, a giant toilet that celebrates the town's name. Snap a selfie and learn the local legend.
- Dunedoo Historical Museum — Housed in a former bank, this small museum holds fascinating relics from the area's pioneering and rail history.
- Warrumbungle National Park — Just a short drive west, this dark-sky park offers spectacular hiking, stargazing, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
- Coolah Tops National Park — A high-altitude wilderness with ancient forests, waterfalls, and superb birdwatching; perfect for a day trip.
- Local produce and pubs — Stop at the Dunedoo Hotel for a cold beer and a classic pub meal, or grab a pie from the local bakery.
Suggested Time to Spend
Dunedoo makes an excellent quick stopover of 1–2 hours to stretch your legs, photograph the Big Dunny, and browse the museum. If you plan to explore the nearby national parks, allow a full day or overnight stay — the Warrumbungle area deserves at least half a day for a walk, and staying on gives you the chance to experience the spectacular night sky.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Coolah — A charming village with a historic main street and the gateway to Coolah Tops National Park.
- Coonabarabran — Australia's 'astronomy capital', home to the Siding Spring Observatory and stunning Warrumbungle walks.
- Mudgee — Renowned wine region with cellar doors, gourmet food, and heritage architecture; about 90 minutes south.
- Dubbo — Family-friendly destination with Taronga Western Plains Zoo and the Old Dubbo Gaol; an easy day trip east.
- Gulgong — A historic gold-rush town with a preserved 19th-century streetscape and the Henry Lawson Centre.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.